"Message from the Director"

My dream is for us to create an unforgettable musical and personal experiences here at OPYO!

Here are some basics of orchestral practice that will help us make the very best music we can.

Before We Rehearse:

On time = in your seat, warming up (not chatting or just sitting) at least 5 minutes before rehearsal begins.

We understand that parents’ schedules sometimes make this impossible, but do your best.

Arrange your chair and stand so you can see the conductor simply by raising your eyes above the music.

Work it out with your stand partner so that it's good for both of you.

Leave your instrument case at the sides of the room; do not bring it to your seat.

Put your pencil on the stand the minute you sit down.

Do not leave your pencils in your case or in your folder.

Use a wood pencil, not a mechanical one; wood pencils write darker.

Make sure to bring a few extras.

While We Rehearse:

Mark your music: circle any missed accidentals or dynamics.

It’s totally professional to stop playing right in the middle of rehearsal to mark something in your part.

That way you’re less likely to make the same mistake.

And the conductor will see that you heard your mistake and won’t have to stop to ask you if you heard the mistake.

Mark dark so you believe your marking.

Watch the conductor! We can only make great music if we're all watching.

It doesn't matter if you miss a few notes. In fact:

It’s great if you missed a few notes because you took a risk and looked up!

Listen when the conductor speaks to another section.

You're likely to have the same music at some point; mark what the conductor says to that other section.

Then we won't have to go over and over the same music when you have it.

Write a check (or star, or J) above any tricky measures;

Practice those measures – for only a few minutes every day - slow enough to get them right. That’s all you have to do at home.

Remember: practice does not make perfect: practice makes permanent!

So practice it correctly - otherwise, you'll get real good at playing it wrong!

We want to rehearse the music, not practice your parts in public!

Let's make the very best music we've ever made ... right here and right now! Then, we'll take our musical and personal growth back home and out into the world to inspire others with our joy in music and learning!